Sunday claimed three maximum points against Go Round FC in the local derby to prove that they are the force to reckon with when it comes to game of soccer in Rivers state.
United won 1-0 in a game lacking in quality.
Ochowechi ‘Oche’ Salefu’s late penalty was all Rivers United needed to triumph over their local rivals in the match-day 7 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
The ‘Pride of Rivers’ United never really got off first gear for the entirety of the game against a Go Round side that appeared happy to play for a draw.
The ‘Lions’ from Omoku were happy to sit back for most parts and try to catch the hosts’ underbelly on the break.
Goal opportunities were few and far between until a rash challenge by Awala Moses on Samuel Akinbinu in the 79th minute gave the hosts a chance win it late on with a goal from open play looking extremely unlikely from both sides.
Salefu is a man for the big occasion and when he stepped up to take responsibility from 12 yards, there was never any doubts about the eventual outcome.
Technical manager of Rivers United FC, Stanley Eguma spoke to our official website, www.riversunitedfc.com.ng after the game.
“It was important to amass maximum points but we couldn’t play compact and cohesive football as we planned in the first half.
“We improved in the second half and I think we are still on course,” Eguma said.
Rivers United have now amassed ten points from their opening seven games in the season and occupy 10th spot while Go Round FC are in the relegation zone as they have amassed seven points from seven matches.
United will next travel to Damaturu to face Yobe Desert Stars as the NPFL enters match day eight.
However, both Akwa United and Plateau Utd handed their respective opponents heavy defeat large goal marging.
Akwa smashed Wikki Tourists 4-0 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo to maintain their leadership on the log while Plateau United humiliated Sunshine stars with 5-0 spanking in Jos.
The Promise Keepers have now garnered 16 points from seven games, one more than Plateau United who also enjoyed a comfortable afternoon with their 5-0 trouncing of Sunshine Stars in Jos.
